Rendering of the new Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades
Anne Arundel Community College (AACC) had some skilled trades programs already. While many students participated in apprenticeship programs, there were no lab spaces on campus for students to hone their craft. Often, they had to drive to Baltimore, about 40 minutes away, to use space borrowed from AACC partners. To fill this gap and bring more attention to the opportunities provided by these careers, AACC did something it had never done in its 60-year history: look directly to its community for funds.
The college hoped to raise at least $4 million to build a small but state-of-the-art building. Over 200 donations later, some as small as $5, AACC exceeded their goal and raised $4.25 million. The Clauson Center for Innovation and Skilled Trades was completed in December. It will host its first classes in February, teaching electronics, HVAC, plumbing, welding, framing, finish carpentry, and general contracting.
“It’s the first of its kind, fully funded solely through the kindness and support of community,” said Kip Kunsman, dean of the school of continuing education and workforce development at AACC.
Having a skilled trade building located on campus can help students truly feel like they are members of the college and make the resources AACC has to offer more easily accessible, said Kunsman.
Dr. Dawn Lindsay, president of AACC
AACC created an advisory board of employers in the local economy, who shared their needs and what they felt were the greatest barriers to employment. Using the board as a guide, AACC was able to tailor its program. Now that the Clauson Center is open, the board will assist in spreading the word that new classes are available to anyone who is interested, as AACC accepts 100% of its applicants.
